Posts Tagged ‘beaches’
Come Stay in Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte in the Philippines – One of the Worlds Best Kept Tourist Secrets
May 11, 2010
Pagudpud! Where on earth is Pagudpod as it is also known. This place is beautiful every day and perfect every other day. People commonly say that it is the Boracay of the North. We like to respond that it is what Boracay was many years ago! That is what makes the place so popular. It is simply how Boracay was 25 years ago! The place is also home to the pristine and pure white sands of Saud Beach.
This is a sleepy rural coastal village located at the most Northern tip of Luzon Island in the Philippines. It lies just 50 miles further up the coast from the capital of Ilocos Norte province, Laoag City. It is also about 350 miles north of the Philippine capital Manila, and you reach it by driving, catching a bus or flying up to Laoag City.
The village lies to the north of the town of Bangui and its many giant windmill generators. Inland lies the imposing Cordillera Mountain Range, which is the biggest mountain range within the Philippines. On the other side of this range of mountains is Cagayan province. Up to the North and also to the West lie the warm waters of the South China Sea.
The interest raised by many international visitors is rising and one well respected and influential international travel writer selected Saud Beach as Asia’s Number One on a list of the Top 10 Asian Beaches. It is recommended that people visit before it becomes popular with tourists.
The region contains some very picturesque and virtually deserted beaches, with breathtaking waterfalls, beautiful scenic views, and has a genuine escape from the city rat race feeling. It is not hard to understand why many directors choose to shoot TV commercials and movies in the area. Try to picture in your mind a virtually deserted trpical beach with virtually no tourists on it, with no deafening jet skis on the water, and with no long line of tourist bars and without a single fast food restaurant in sight!
The village is situated amongst verdant green mountains, rich valleys, rolling hills and flat coastal plains. The 20,000 people who live in the village and the surrounding area subsist on rice farming, general farming, fishing, and the fresh fish and lobsters are delicious and cheap here and more recently tourism is growing.
The best thing about the area are the wonderful and friendly people, you will receive a genuine Ilocano welcome, so isn’t just the best beach within Asia but it’s also possibly the friendliest location in Asia.
Ilocos Norte is synonymous with warm tropical sunshine, azure blue skies; the most stunning turquoise blue and crystal clear water and sparkling white sands. Does Pagudpud sound too good to be true? It really is that beautiful!
Dont tell your friends and see for yourself Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte and have the Special beach retreat vacation in paradise and this will become your special vacation location that friends will envy. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service
San Diego is a Fantastic Destination for a Summer Escape
April 29, 2010
The 3rd most important industry in San Diego is tourism, and it’s no wonder. Southern California enjoys beautiful weather conditions at all times of year, but particularly May – August when tourists are on the move. Things that you can do in any city are more enjoyable when the weather’s nice. The only thing you could add to make a better getaway place is an ocean. You can find theme parks and museums in many major metropolitan areas. Those in San Diego, though, are unique. Here are a few of San Diego’s leading attractions.
The San Diego Zoo is famous worldwide, and its sister, the Wild Animal Park, is equally amazing. Balboa Park, near downtown San Diego, is home to the 4,000 animals at the San Diego Zoo. The Wild Animal Park in Escondido houses another 3,500 animals on 1,800 acres. Both parks offer a variety of educational programs and summer camps for kids in addition to the beautiful exhibits available for tourists to see.
The San Diego Zoo is well-known worldwide, and its sister, the Wild Animal Park, is just as remarkable. The zoo, home to four thousand animals, is located in Balboa Park near downtown San Diego. Another 3,500 animals call the 1,800 acre Wild Animal Park in Escondido home. In addition to beautiful exhibits and well cared-for animals, they offer educational programs and even summer camps for kids.
Balboa Park houses fifteen museums, with specialties such as trains, science, art, history, air & space and sports. There’s a museum here to spark everyone’s interest. If San Diego is your home, you can take advantage of free Tuesdays.
The Pacific Ocean is by far the best attraction of all. With its miles of coastline, there are a variety of water related activities to enjoy. Those who live further inland come for the ocean. Even those who live further north come for the unbeatable combination of water and sunshine.
Don’t make the mistake of skipping the beach when you come to San Diego. Building sand castles, having a beach bonfire, playing in the surf and exploring tide pools are fun and inexpensive. These are experiences that everyone should have. More adventurous visitors can try fishing, sailing, surfing, body boarding or kayaking. At certain time of the year, you can go whale watching. If it’s not whale season, take a wildlife cruise and watch the dolphins play in the wild.
Of course the ocean lends itself to more upscale endeavors. Take a sunset cruise or eat at a restaurant overlooking a harbor or beach. Many cruises of the Mexican Riviera start in San Diego Harbor.
This vacation paradise is conveniently located. Many people can reach San Diego by car, since it’s part of the continental U.S. You can save money by avoiding airfare, especially if you’re traveling with a large group or family. People frequently drive to San Diego from much of the western United States. Visitors from Orange County, Riverside and Los Angeles often go south for a quick weekend getaway, or even a day trip.
If you’re looking for a place to spend an entire week or just a couple of days, San Diego is ideal. Many people who now call San Diego home came for a visit and decided to stay. You can never get enough of a good thing.
Written by Hannah Valez New Homes in San Diego New Homes in Chula Vista New Homes in San Marcos
Why Thailand Is A Great Holiday Destination
April 25, 2010
On the must see list for any world traveler should be the country of Thailand. It is well known as a top tourist destination for people all over the world. Many people fall in love with the country and return time and again.
One could go on and on about the many great reasons to visit Thailand. It has cultural and historic sites that date back thousands of years as well as some of the greatest beaches on the planet. It’s no wonder tourism is one of it’s major industries.
If you like to mix in culture and history along with sitting at the beach than Thailand is the place for you. The many Buddhist temples that dot the countryside, along with many great palaces can fill your days with sightseeing. You can also experience the beauty of an Issan dance troop at one of the many cultural centers for a little added enjoyment.
The capital of Thailand is Bangkok. It is a very metropolitan city that can cater to all tastes. It has a very vibrant nightlife to offset the hectic big business atmosphere of any large city. It is also home to some of the countries best known temples and palaces.
Thailand has some of the best tropical beaches on the planet. White sand, tall palm trees, and azure blue waters setup an ideal tropical resort setting. The crowd of visitors to the place includes, backpackers, families, and single tourists. There really is something for everyone.
One of the top islands is Koh Samui. It was once a sleepy beach visited mainly by backpackers looking to take in the full moon parties and cheap accommodations. It’s popularity has grown and now there are just as many families and high end resorts as their are backpackers. It still has some great tropical beaches and world class SCUBA diving.
Also high on the list is the island of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. It is comprised of three main resort locations. Kamala Beach, Karon Beach, and Patong Beach are the most popular. While Patong is know for its nightlife, Kamala and Karon are a little more laid back and family friendly. Phuket is also close to James Bond Island, a very popular day trip.
Thailand is well known as a travel destination for many very good reasons. If you are looking to try something a little different and experience a bit of Asia, then you should definitely have this as a stop on your itinerary.
Robert writes a series of Pattaya Thailand hotel reviews for the website Pattaya Thailand Essentials.
Kenya Vacations – Enjoying The Ultimate Holiday Experience While At The Kenyan Coast
March 30, 2010
When you are looking for a great East African beach holiday experience, you should consider traveling to the Kenyan coast.Some of the most preferred tourist destinations here are Malindi, Lamu and Mombasa. These have arguably some of the world’s best beaches.
Located some 480km by road from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, Mombasa is the second largest city in Kenya bordering the Indian Ocean. Mombasa is a haven for those looking for quiet, relaxing Kenya luxury safaris,water sports and game fishing opportunities.
The coastal city of Mombasa has more to offer than pristine sandy beaches. This includes sport fishing, snorkellling , day-time dhow cruises and romantically themed sailing dinners with live music. In addition, many historical and cultural remnants dating several centuries back are found in this city. Key among these is the Fort Jesus which was built in 1593 by the Portuguese as a mark their territory.
North of Mombasa, about 150km away lies the town of Malindi, an equally fascinating destination. It is in Malindi that you find some of the most celebrated cultural, historical, and natural attractions. These include Hells Kitchen, the Arabuko Sokoke forest, and Malindi Marine National park. The coral reefs in Malindi Marine Park give you an opportunity for the best scuba diving and snorkeling. The presence of dolphins and whale sharks here just spices things up.
Malindi boasts several historical attractions that include Gede Ruins, Vasco Da Gama’s Pillar, Watamu Village and the Portuguese Chapel. The town can be reached by road from Mombasa or by air by way of domestic flights to Malindi Airport.
If you are interested in learning more about the history and culture of the Swahili, then Lamu is the place you must visit. Comprising of six main islands and several smaller ones, the Lamu archipelago is home to many attractions and fun travel activities. Lamu is situated 265 Km north of Mombasa.
Among Lamu attractions are the beaches of Shela and Kiwayu Island and the famous Lamu Museum from where one can learn a lot about the history and culture of the Lamu dwellers. For lovers of water sports like snorkelling and kayaking, Lamu offers it all as well as dhow cruises that are very popular with Lamu Visitors.
The coast of Kenya, thanks to its location near the equator, is an all year round destination. Visitors are required to carry a valid visa to enter the country. Nationals from Commonwealth countries, including the United Kingdom (UK) and Canada do not need a visa.
Planning to travel to Kenya? Visit the author’s Travel to Africa website where you will find helpful information on Kenya Travel including Kenya Tours, Malindi Hotels. Africapoint.com is an Africa travel portal that has helped thousands of travelers discover Africa.
Adventure And Excitement Await In Gold Coast
March 30, 2010
Dreamworld is a theme park like no other. There are 6 big thrill rides which include The Claw, Cyclone, Wipeout, Tower of Terror, Mick Doohan Motorcoaster and the Giant Drop. For the Nickelodeon fans visit the exciting Nick Central which includes 16 rides and attractions all geared toward your favorite Nick characters. For the little tykes, a trip to Wiggles World is sure to please, with it’s magical ride in the big red car. The Australian Wildlife Experience gets you up close and personal to many native animals and a Bengal Tiger. Flowrider is the newest attraction at Dreamworld. This is a perpetual wave for the surfer in you.
White Water World is the Gold coasts newest water park located close to Dreamworld.It combines adrenalin pumping thrills with family style fun in the ultimate Aussie beach paradise. White Water World boasts all four of the hottest water slides on the planet including one of only two LIM powered rocket coasters in the world and the only eight-lane Octopus Racer in existence.
Experience water like never before on The Green Room, The Rip, Super Tubes Hydrocoaster and the Blue Ringed Octopus. Go head to head with your mates on the brand new water ride The Little Rippers and see who will be flushed out first. Run riot in Nickelodeons Pipeline Plunge or splash and play at Wiggle bay. White Water World celebrates Australia and the Australian beach culture from surfing and surf lifesaving to dogs on the beach. Its the ultimate shrine to the Australian sun, sand and sea.
For more heart-pumping rides, experience Warner Brothers Movie World. Some of the thrill rides include the Batwing, Superman Escapes, Lethal Weapon and Wild West Falls. The colorful kids WB! FunZone offers everything from the WB network characters to the all new Looney Tunes special live show, “What’s Up Rock?” The newest attraction is the $10million Hollywood Stunt Show which features legendary car chases, car crashes and car stunts. This theme park provides year round family fun.
Sea World. Experience the exhilaration of Sea World Jet Rescue as you twist and turn on your thrilling quest to save Australia’s precious marine life. The new dolphin show “Imagine- will enthrall you. The clever and hilarious Sea Lions will have you in stitches as they take you on an adventure to solve an environmental crime at their new show Fish Detectives. Come face to face with the beautiful Polar Bears at their state-of-the-art home Polar Bear Shores, as well as the sharks and tropical marine life at the amazing Shark Bay. There are also everybody’s favorite Sesame Street characters as they play in the all new kids adventure precinct Sesame Street Beach.
When you are searching for gold coast hotels the best place to log onto is www.goldcoastinformation.com.au. They have all the information that you need to plan the perfect vacation.
Brisbane Is More Than Great Night Life
March 20, 2010
Although Brisbane has a relaxed beach feel, it is actually located off the coast. If you are looking for the beauty and serene atmosphere of Moreton Bay, then you need to head to the suburbs, such as Redcliffe and Manly.
Redcliffe: The site of Queenslands first European settlement in 1824, Redcliffe has grown into a thriving seaside city just 30 minutes north-east of Brisbane. The relaxed lifestyle, golden beaches and beautiful foreshore parks are just part of the attraction. The Redcliffe peninsula juts into Moreton Bay and from the top of the volcanic red cliffs there are excellent views of the islands across the bay.
Follow one of the heritage trails to see historic buildings. Redcliffes beaches are perfect for swimming and fishing from Redcliffe Jetty is a popular local pastime. For a colorful trip back to childhood, visit Pelican Park on the second and fourth Sunday of each month when the Queensland Kite Flyers Society have kite-flying days (In May Redcliffe hosts the QKS Redcliffe Kite Fest, a spectacular display of all things kite). If watching wildlife is more your thing, tours depart from Redcliffe to watch the humpback whales migrate past the coast in the winter months.
Alma Park Zoo: This zoo is set inside an award winning rainforest garden and is only 28 kilometers north of the city. You will find both exotic and native animals, and you have the opportunity to interact with animals such as koalas, kangaroos and deer. There are also animals ranging from wombats to monkeys, for your viewing pleasure. Alma Park Zoo, also has many beautiful picnic areas, where you can relax and enjoy a nice lunch with your family.
Wynnum-Manly: This is an attractive coastal area, located on 15 kilometers east of the city. If you are interested in wildlife, Pandanus Beach is the place for you to visit, just watch out fro fish and migrating birds. There is a boardwalk along the shore for you to enjoy a leisurely walk, or you can hire a bike and ride a 5 kilometer esplanade from Manly to Lota. If you want a glimpse of some beautiful yacht visit the Manly Boat Harbour, you can also hire boats for fishing and sailing while you are there, or book a tour to the island of St. Helena where the structures of prison life still remain from back in 1867-1932.
Wynnum-Manly’s neighboring suburbs have a history dating back to the 1860s and boast some interesting historic sights. North of Wynnum, at the mouth of the Brisbane River, is the 19th century Fort Lytoon, surrounded by a moat. A museum at the fort (open only on Sundays and public holidays) interprets Queenslands military and social history from 1879. Further north is the Port of Brisbane which offers public tours and includes an informative visitor center.
With the numerous brisbane hotels to decide from, how do you know you are getting the best deal available. By going to www.brisbaneinformation.com.au you can comparison shop all the hotels and browse through information on brisbane accommodation and more.
Features of the Sandals Negril Beach Resort
March 17, 2010
You’re lying on a white sand beach with the warm rays of the sunlight shining down on your skin. You hear waves are gently rolling onto the sand as you reach out to your personal butler as he hands you a frozen drink complete with umbrella. Your special someone looks at you and smiles, and you think this is the perfect vacation! The All-Inclusive Sandals Negril will give you all of that and more.
The Sandals Negril was recently completely updated, and won the CHA’s Green Hotel of the Year award. Set on Negril’s famous 7-mile beach, the Sandals Negril provides all of its guests with beautiful views of its stunning azure waters. No matter where you are in the resort, you are only a few steps away from the white sand beaches.
The rooms at the Sandals Negril are top of the line in luxury. Each room provides its guests with a restful and comfortable sanctuary. If you’re looking for a truly unique and opulent experience then you might want to investigate Sandals private butler service. For a bit more money, you can have a butler who is dedicated to ensuring that each and every one of your needs is being met often before you think about it.
One of the best things about the Sandals Negril is that you will get to experience the feel of Negril. From the moment that you set foot into the resort, you will feel the laid-back spirit of Jamaica. At the Sandals Negril, you can sit with your special someone at Rick’s Cafe’ and gaze over the cliffs of Negril. Or maybe you want to take a chartered catamaran along the coast for relaxing sunset views. The Sandals Negril has so many great activities to keep you busy if you want to be. You can take advantage of the top of the line fitness center, scuba lessons at the scuba pool, land and sea sports available, or the top-notch entertainment that the Sandals Negril provides daily.
The Sandals Negril also has six different on-site restaurants for you to choose from. However, the options don’t end there! Sandals has a great program where if you are a guest at one of their resorts you can also enjoy the amenities at any of their nearby resorts. The Sandals Negril is close to their Beach Resorts where there are 14 more diverse restaurants for you to enjoy. There is such variety in your choices that one night you may be dining on food from the Caribbean, and then the next you’ll be noshing on traditional Asian fare.
Almost certainly the greatest thing about the Sandals Negril is the fact that it’s an all-inclusive resort so almost all of your activities, food, as well as drinks are included in the price! That way the instant you arrive at the resort you’ll not have to fret regarding exceeding your budget. That way you will be able to really just sit back and unwind without the need for worrying about anything at all other than having the time of your life!
For more information on other Sandals resorts like the Sandals Grande St Lucian as wel as the Breezes in Montego Bay, visit TropicalVacationsGuide.com
Thinking About A Costa Rica Vacation? Check Out Jaco
March 8, 2010
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How about going to a vacation spot that is known to have some of the best and most popular beaches in Costa Rica? If you have always wanted to vacation in Costa Rica, check out Jaco.
Located only two hours from San Jose, Jaco is along Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast at the Northern part of Puntarenas province. Though there are plenty of things to do during the day, this is one of the country’s famous “party towns”, well known for the outstanding, eclectic nightlife that you can enjoy on the beach.
Over the years, many tourists have made this a favorite location for their visits, citing its casual, relaxed, laid back, friendly, party atmosphere. There are lots of great beaches nearby, some of which are very tranquil, all of which are gorgeous. Jaco has boomed over the last half dozen years or so. Where there was once a quiet little road (except at night) road through town, today there are towering high rises and resorts, and lots and lots of bars, restaurants, and shops.
College kids have long traveled to Jaco because of its “party beach” and cheap accommodations. There is great surfing and lots of bars and discos. They are joined by people of every age and background who come here to enjoy the many things to do and see. Today, there are many restaurants, taverns, tourist traps, and nightclubs to choose from. Whatever your budget, from luxury to basic (think hostels without hot water) there’s a place for you—-not to mention a tourist souvenir shop.
Jaco Beach sits directly in front of Jaco and is very, very popular but , in my opinion, nearby beaches just a couple of miles or kilometers away, are much better. There are fewer people and the waters are some of the purest on earth. The best beaches are awarded Blue Flag ecological certifications for cleanliness. When you vacation in Jaco, I strongly recommend going to spectacular Hermosa Beach, a couple of miles south of Jaco. Though it is not good for safe swimming due to its currents, it is pristine and pure with some of the best surfing on the planet. How good is the surfing? Think world class. Indeed, this July professional surfers from more than 35 countries are descending upon Hermosa to participate in a week of world surfing championships. Watch them during the days or party with them at night in Jaco.
There are dozens of different things to do and innumerable places to visit close at hand. Costa Rica is tiny but filled with interesting places and activities. Go whitewater rafting or learn to sea kayak. Take a horseback ride along the beach or through the mountains (if you’re into extreme riding, you can literally ride across Costa Rica from the Pacific to the Caribbean). Visit volcanoes, sit in volcanic hot springs, try rappelling in tropical mountains, go ballooning. Or just sit back and enjoy the great ocean views and beautiful, romantic sunsets. But, take care when swimming. Some of the beaches, wonderful for surfing, can be dangerous for swimming because of riptides. There are no lifeguards—and no warning signs—so ask if it is safe to swim before jumping in.
And, if you like to fish (or want a new experience), take a day charter from Jaco. The waters are often teeming with wonderful fish, from 400 pound marlin to sailfish, schools of tuna, and dozens of other species. Costa Rica offers some of the worlds great off-shore fishing and remember: the worst day of fishing is better than the best day of working.
Though it is easy to reach by air, Costa Rica remains to be discovered. Columbus was the first to find it and, indeed, gave it its name “Rich Coast.” It remains a spectacular haven with one-fifth of every species of plant and animal on the planet residing together in a tiny little country. So, don’t limit yourself to the beaches of Jaco. There’s lots more waiting.
Mr. Vic Krumm lives in beautiful Costa Rica and and has a lovely website Costa Rica Vacations. Visit here to learn more about Costa Rica Beaches Don’t reprint this exact article. Instead, reprint a free unique content version of this same article.
Monterey Bay Hotels Have Something For All Travelers
February 26, 2010
The natural surroundings and wealth of attractions around Monterey Bay offer visitors a lot to choose from. Golfers can enjoy world-class golfing at Pebble Beach, outdoor enthusiasts can stroll along the coastline at Big Sur and kids and adults alike can pear into the underwater world of the Bay at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. When it comes to accommodations in the area, Monterey Bay hotels have something for everyone.
Fremont Street offers a variety of hotel and motel options for travelers on a tight budget. Only one mile from the heart of Monterey, hotels and motels along Fremont Street provide all the comfort and amenities budget travelers search for. Supermarkets, restaurants and pharmacies are all within walking distance of Fremont Street accommodations, offering travelers everything necessary for a comfortable stay.
Cannery Row accommodations give visitors to Monterey a chance to stay in the midst of many of the attractions travelers come to see in Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium, stores and restaurants are just a short walk from all Cannery Row hotels. Moderately priced and luxury accommodations can be found throughout the Cannery Row area.
Visitors staying in Pacific Grove have the opportunity to enjoy the Monterey Bay area, while getting a glimpse of what life in a small coastal town is all about. Family inns, motels and hotels in Pacific Grove offer a more personal atmosphere than many of the larger hotels. Pacific Grove guests can stroll along the pristine coastline at Asilomar beach and enjoy the natural beauty that Monterey Bay is famous for.
If you have taste for luxury, Carmel Village could offer what you crave. Carmel Village offers a number of small hotels and bed and breakfast inns for visitors to choose from. Attractions in Carmel Village include Carmel Beach, world-famous art galleries and five-star cuisine.
Carmel Valley offers the perfect climate for those who crave the sun. While other visitors languish in the coastal fog, Carmel Valley visitors can frolic in the heat. Golfers and tennis enthusiasts have a wealth of Carmel Valley resorts to choose from, all catering to the love of the sport.
Visitors who stay along the Big Sur coastline have the opportunity to escape from it all. Just a short drive away from downtown Monterey, Big Sur offers dramatic, natural beauty, among the best North America has to offer. Breathtaking scenery, luxury hotels and spectacular dining can all be found at a Big Sur hotel.
Monterey Bay visitors return home with lasting memories. Accommodations can serve to enhance any vacation. All visitors can find Monterey Bay hotels to fit their lifestyle and their travel budget.
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Enjoy Your Stay In Monterey Bay Hotels
February 23, 2010
Plan a visit to California, and enjoy a stay in Monterey Bay hotels. There are plenty of attractions in this area to fill your entire vacation. Whether you are looking for family friendly activities, or you are going solo, you can really have a very enjoyable time staying in a Monterey Bay hotels.
Your stay can be filled with adventures into the great outdoors, evenings of culture and arts, or even taking in the night life. The only limit to the possibilities is your own imagination. Either within the city, or within a short drive, you can locate what you came for.
Take the time to learn about aquatic life during your stay. Several area aquariums offer different programs and exhibits. Check online ahead of time to find out about special events that may be offered. If you have children along with you they will grow up remembering how they got to pet a sting ray or touch a shark. If you are by yourself or with a friend you can take joy in learning about different fish and their habitats, their way of life. After all, you are never too old to learn.
The Redwood forest is a wonder of nature that you should not pass up. Much like other natural wonders, pictures do not come close to conveying the real experience of being there. When you walk through the center of one of these giants it tends to give a humbling feeling to lots of people. Take a picnic with you for the ride and make a day of it. Chances are, it will take all of your energy to make the trip anyway since it is a very high altitude.
Tour the city and be sure to get a good view of the Golden Gate Bridge. The climate of the area takes a little getting used to so taking along layers of clothes is a wise decision. The fact of the matter is that the only ones that really know how to dress for the weather are the residents.
The infamous Alcatraz prison is a sight for anyone. Closed now for many years it is open for public tours. You will be shown the cell blocks and told about the some of the stories about the formal residents there.
Fisherman’s Wharf has a reputation known around the world. The rich history here is like no other. People flock from all over to to enjoy the dining, shopping, and family friendly activities that it has to offer. You can board a glass bottom boat and tour the bay on it, observing along the way all of the marine life. At the end of each day of your vacation you can come back to relax in Monterey Bay hotels.
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